Moveable object accountability system

ABSTRACT

This discloses an accountability system for monitoring the status of a certain condition of a moveable object having an electronic identification device with a transmittable unique identification code. A verification station with an electronic signal transmission and reception device remotely initiates communication with the electronic identification device on the moveable object and receives the unique identification code. A database at the verification station retrieves information related to said unique identification code, and a camera captures a digital image of said moveable object, while displaying the image and querying a user to input verification data to an input device. A data processing sub-system at the verification station verifies the user&#39;s input and compiles a data record of the unique identification code, the digital image, and data input from the user into a data record and stores the compiled record in memory for later communication with a remote storage device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This continuation-in-part application claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/898,193, filed on Jul. 26, 2004.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The general field of the invention relates to periodic and real-time location history tracking with periodic verification of the existence or non-existence of certain predetermined conditions of moveable objects within a time period.

This invention further relates to an accountability system for monitoring the status of a certain condition of a moveable object having an electronic identification device with a transmittable unique identification code. A verification station with an electronic signal transmission and reception device remotely initiates communication with the electronic identification device on the moveable object and receives the unique identification code. A database at the verification station retrieves information related to said unique identification code, and a camera captures a digital image of said moveable object while displaying the image and querying a user to input verification data to an input device. A data processing system at the verification station verifies the user's input and compiles a data record of the unique identification code, the digital image, and data input from the user into a data record and stores the compiled record in memory for later communication with a remote storage device.

2. Description of the Related Art

The requirement for an accountability system for verifying and monitoring a predetermined condition on a moveable object in addition to collecting data of the location of that moveable object in a low cost and technically simple manner has long existed. Qne example of moveable objects could be commercial, non-commercial or fleet owned vehicles having a condition such as a displayable sign or advertisement. This invention allows an entity, such as an advertising client, to account for any such displayable sign or advertisement on any particular moveable object over a period of time, and additionally obtain data on general or specific movement of that particular moveable object over a period of time or with real-time data acquisition.

The objective of this invention relates to the use of an accountability system for verifying a condition on a moveable object through the use of a hardware sub-system on the moveable object containing a unique identification code. A verification sub-system remote from the moveable object identifies the presence of the moveable object by the unique identification code and collects information regarding the condition of the moveable object for transmission to a central data processing system remote from either previous sub-system. The transmitted verification data is then processed at the central data processing system which controls communication of the processed information and other information transmitted to clients, vendors, suppliers, retailers, point of sale devices, and owner/operators of the moveable objects subject to the accountability system's verification process.

Although other systems use location logging or tracking devices, no other system meets the objectives of verifying a condition on a moveable object in addition to logging or transmitting date, time and location coordinate data.

Thus a moveable object accountability system solving the aforementioned problems is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A specific sub-system of a first embodiment of this invention comprises a moveable object accountability system that monitors the status of at least one condition of a moveable object. The condition is one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object.

The moveable accountability system comprises an electronic identification device mounted on the moveable object, wherein the electronic identification device has a unique identification code and electronically transmits a signal containing information of the unique identification code. An electronic signal transmission and reception device initiates communication with the electronic identification device and receives the signal containing information of the unique identification code from the electronic identification device mounted on the moveable object. A local database has stored information related to at least one of the unique identification code, the moveable object and the at least one condition of the moveable object. A camera captures a first image of the moveable object, wherein the first image includes a representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object. A display device displays information contained in the first image, and displays a query or information including or related to the unique identification code. An input device allows the inputting of data related to the moveable object or inputting a response to the query displayed at the display device. A data processing sub-system coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, the data processing sub-system: 1) compares the signal containing information of the unique identification code with related information in the local database; 2) displays, at the display device, graphical information contained in the first image and a query to validate information related to the moveable object and the unique identification code; and 3) compares input data received from the input device in response to the query to data stored in the local database. The data processing sub-system compiles data received from the unique identification code received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera, and the input device into a data record, and a memory location within the local database stores the data record. Finally, a communication link between the local database and a remote storage device transmits at least one stored data record to the remote storage device.

The electronic identification device in the above sub-system embodiment may comprise a radio frequency identification device, and the system may include an output device for outputting information related to the moveable object, wherein the output device may comprise a coupon printer device.

A method of collecting accountability data for a moveable object in the first embodiment of the invention comprises the steps of: determining the presence of an electronic identification device; querying the electronic identification device to output a unique identification code; receiving the output unique identification code; comparing the received unique identification code with information related to the received unique identification code in a local database; capturing a digital image of a moveable object including a representation of at least one condition, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object; displaying at a display device the representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object from the step of capturing and a verification query based on the step of comparing; receiving input based on the step of displaying; comparing the received input with related data stored in the local database; assembling a data record comprising information contained in the unique identification code, the captured digital image of the moveable object including a representation of at least one condition, and the received input, based on the step of comparing; storing the assembled data record in a local database; and transmitting the stored data record to a remote database

A specific apparatus of the first embodiment of the invention comprises an electronic signal transmission and reception device that initiates communication with a remote electronic identification device and receives a signal containing information of a unique identification code from the remote electronic identification device mounted on a moveable object. A local database stores information related to at least one of the unique identification code, the moveable object and information of at least one condition of the moveable object. A camera captures a first image of the moveable object, wherein the first image includes a representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object, the at least one condition comprising one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object. A display device displays information contained in the first image, and displays a query or information including or related to the unique identification code. An input device allows the input of data related to the moveable object or a response to the query displayed at the display device. A data processor is coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, and a memory within the local database stores a data record compiled by the data processor from information received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera, and the input device. Finally, a communication link between the local database and a remote storage device transmits at least one stored data record to the remote storage device.

The remote electronic identification device of the above specific embodiment may comprise of a radio frequency identification device, and the apparatus may further comprises an output device for outputting information related to the unique identification code, wherein the output device comprises a coupon printer device for printing coupons related to the unique identification code.

A general system of the first embodiment of the moveable object accountability system monitors the status of at least one condition of a moveable object, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object. The moveable accountability system comprises an electronic identification device mounted on the moveable object, wherein the electronic identification device has a unique identification code and the device is able to electronically transmit a signal containing information of the unique identification code. An electronic signal transmission and reception device initiates communication with the electronic identification device and receives the signal containing information of the unique identification code from the electronic identification device mounted on the moveable object. A local database stores information related to at least one of the unique identification code, the moveable object and the at least one condition of the moveable object. A camera captures a first image of the moveable object, wherein the first image includes a representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object. A display device displays graphical information contained in the first image, and displays a query or information including or related to the unique identification code. An input device allows inputting of data related to the moveable object or responses to the query regarding information displayed at the display device. A data processing sub-system coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, compares the signal containing information of the unique identification code with related information in the local database, displays, at the display device, graphical information contained in the first image and a query to validate information related to the moveable object and the unique identification code, and compares input data received from the input device in response to the query to data stored in the local database. The data processing sub-system compiles data received from the unique identification code received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera, and the input device into a data record, and a memory within the data processing sub-system stores the data record. A remote central processing data system having a central storage database is connected via a communication link between the local database to transmit information between the remote central data processing system and the local database for processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data system.

The electronic identification device of the above general embodiment comprises a radio frequency identification device, and the system further comprises an output device for outputting information related to the unique identification code, wherein the output device may comprises a coupon printer device for printing coupons related to the unique identification code.

A first specific apparatus of a second embodiment of this invention comprises a data logging apparatus for use with a moveable object accountability system having a unique identification code specific only to the apparatus, a date and clock signal generator for outputting current date and clock data, a location identification device for determining the geographic location of the apparatus and outputting corresponding location data, a motion detection sensor for detecting when the apparatus is in motion, and a central processing unit for data logging activated when the motion detection sensor detects motion. The data logging function assembles data from the unique identification code, the date and clock data, and the location data at predetermined period time intervals and a memory stores the assembled data from the central processor. A transmitter and receiver that transmits and receives data between the apparatus and a moveable object accountability system, wherein the transmitted data comprises at least one of the unique identification code, and the stored assembled data. Additionally included is a power source for supplying power to the apparatus.

The location identification device of the above first specific apparatus comprises one of a global positioning system (GPS) output device, a cellular telephone location system device, and an accelerometer or inertial positioning device, and the unique identification code and the transmitter and receiver comprises a radio frequency identification device.

A first specific sub-system of a second embodiment of this invention comprises a data logging system for logging the position of a moveable object, wherein the data logging system comprises a motion detection sensor outputting a signal when motion is detected of the data logging system, a location identification signal generator determining the geographic coordinates of the data logging system and outputting geographic coordinates as location data, a date and clock signal generator outputting current date and time data, and a unique identification code specific to and stored in the data logging system. A data processing sub-system is coupled to the outputs of the motion detection sensor, the location identification sensor, the date and clock signal generator, and the unique identification code, wherein the data processing sub-system determines a motion detected signal from the motion detector sensor output, and thereby retrieves: 1) the unique identification code of the data logging system; 2) the location data from the location identification signal generator output; and 3) the current date and time data from the data and clock signal generator. The data processing central processor assembles the retrieved data into a single data record, stores the data record into a next available memory register. A transmitter and receiver that transmits the contents of the memory register including the stored data record from the data logging system to a remote storage device.

The location identification signal generator of the first specific sub-system above, comprises one of a global positioning system (GPS) output device, a cellular telephone location system device, and an accelerometer or inertial positioning device.

A second specific apparatus of a second embodiment of this invention comprises an electronic signal transmission and reception device for initiating communication with a remote electronic identification and data logging device mounted on a moveable object. The apparatus receives a signal containing information of a unique identification code, and receives assembled and stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data from the remote electronic identification and data logging device. A local database has stored information related to the unique identification code, the moveable object and information of at least one condition of the moveable object. A camera captures a first image of the moveable object, wherein the first image includes representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object comprising one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object. A display device displays graphical information contained in the first image, and displays a query or information including or related to the unique identification code. An input device allows input of data related to the moveable object or responses to the query regarding information displayed at the display device. A data processor coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, includes a memory that stores a data record compiled by the data processor from information received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera, and the input device. A communication link between the local database and a remote storage device transmits at least one stored data record to the remote storage device.

The remote electronic identification and data logging device of the second specific apparatus above comprises a radio frequency identification device, and further comprises an output device for outputting information related to the unique identification code, wherein the output device comprises a coupon printer device for printing coupons related to the unique identification code.

A second specific sub-system of a second embodiment of this invention comprises a moveable object accountability system for monitoring the status of at least one condition of a moveable object, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object. The moveable accountability system comprises of an electronic identification and data logging device mounted on the moveable object, wherein the electronic identification and data logging device has a unique identification code and stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data. The electronic identification and data logging device has a transmitter that transmits a signal containing information of the unique identification code and the stored data. An electronic signal transmission and reception device initiates communication with the electronic identification and data logging device and receives the unique identification code and the stored data from the electronic identification and data logging device mounted on the moveable object. A local database stores information related to at least one of the unique identification code, the moveable object and the at least one condition of the moveable object. A camera captures a first image of the moveable object, wherein the first image includes a representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object. A display device displays graphical information contained in the first image, and displays a query or information including or related to the unique identification code. An input device allows for inputting of data related to the moveable object or responses to the query regarding information displayed at the display device. A data processing sub-system coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, wherein the data processing sub-system compares the signal containing information of the unique identification code with related information in the local database, displays, at the display device, graphical information contained in the first image and a query to validate information related to the moveable object and the unique identification code. The data processing sub-system compiles information received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, from the camera, and from the input device into a data record, and a memory within the local database of the data processing sub-system stores the data record. A communication link between the local database and a remote database transmits the information comprising the data record between the local database and the remote database.

A first method of collecting data on the position of a moveable object having a data logging device in the second embodiment of this invention, wherein the data logging device has a unique identifier address datum, a location identification output device, and a date and clock signal output generator. The method comprising the steps of: a. determining movement of the data logging device; b. powering on the data logging device from a data logging power standby mode if in the power standby mode based on the step of determining movement of the data logging device; c. retrieving the unique identifier address datum, a position datum from the location identification device, and current date and time data from the date and clock signal generator; d. storing date and time data in a date and clock memory register; e. assembling the unique identifier address datum, a position datum from the location identification device, and current date and time data from the date and clock signal generator into data record from the step of retrieving; f. storing the data record in a memory in the data logging device; g. determining when the data and clock signal output equals the sum of a first specified period of time and the stored date and time data in the data and clock memory register; h. determining movement of the data logging device within a second specified period of time; 1. repeating the steps c. to g. when step h. determines movement within the second specified period of time; 2. repeating steps d. to g. when step h. determines no movement within the second specified period of time and when date/clock output is less than the sum of a third specified period of time and the stored clock register data; 3. powering down the data logging device to standby power when step h. determines no movement within the second specified period of time and when date/clock output is equal to or greater than the sum of a third specified period of time and the stored clock register data.

The location identification output device identified in the first method above, comprises one of a global positioning system (GPS) output device, a cellular telephone location system device, and an accelerometer or inertial positioning device.

A second method of collecting accountability data for a moveable object in the second embodiment of this invention comprising the steps of; determining the presence of an electronic identification and data logging device; querying the electronic identification and data logging device to output a unique identification code; receiving the output unique identification code; comparing the received unique identification code with information related to the received unique identification code in a local database; querying, based on the step of comparing, the electronic identification and data logging device to transmit stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data; receiving the stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data from the electronic identification and data logging device based on the previous step of querying; capturing a digital image of a moveable object including a representation of at least one condition, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object; displaying at a display device the representation of at least one condition of the moveable object from the step of capturing and a verification query based on the step of comparing; receiving input based on the step of displaying; comparing the received input with related data stored in the local database; assembling a data record comprising information contained in the unique identification code, the received stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data, the captured image of the moveable object including a representation of at least one condition, and the received input, based on the step of comparing; storing the assembled data record in a local database; and transmitting the stored data record to a remote database.

A general system of the second and preferred embodiment of the moveable object accountability system for monitoring the status of at least one condition of a moveable object, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object, the moveable accountability system comprising: an electronic identification and data logging device mounted on the moveable object, wherein the electronic identification and data logging device has a unique identification code and stored data comprising assembled information of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and corresponding date and time data, the electronic identification and data logging device having a transmitter for transmitting a signal containing information of the unique identification code and the stored data; an electronic signal transmission and reception device for initiating communication with the electronic identification and data logging device and receiving the unique identification code and the stored data from the electronic identification and data logging device mounted on the moveable object; a local database having stored information related to at least one of the unique identification code, the moveable object and the at least one condition of the moveable object; a camera capturing a first image of the moveable object at a first observation time, wherein the first image captures a graphical representation of the at least one condition of the moveable object; a display device for displaying graphical information contained in the first image, and displaying a query or information including or related to the unique identification code; an input device for inputting data related to the moveable object or responses to the query regarding information displayed at the display device; a data processing sub-system coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local database, the camera, the display device and the input device, the data processing sub-system comparing the signal containing information of the unique identification code with related information in the local database, displaying, at the display device, graphical information contained in the first image and a query to validate information related to the moveable object and the unique identification code; means, within the data processing sub-system for compiling information received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, from the camera, and from the input device into a data record; a memory within the data processing sub-system for storing the data record; a remote central processing data system having a central storage database; a communication link between the local database and the remote central data processing system for transmitting information between the remote central data processing system and the local database; and means for processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data system.

An alternative general system of the second embodiment of the moveable object accountability system monitors the status of at least one condition of a moveable object, wherein the at least one condition comprises

-   one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the     moveable object, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable     object, and a graphical representation on the moveable object, the     moveable accountability system comprising: an electronic     identification and data transmission device mounted on the moveable     object, wherein the electronic identification and data transmission     device has a transmitter for transmitting a unique identification     code, and for transmitting corresponding data comprising assembled     information of the unique identification code, location coordinate     data, and corresponding date and time data to a remote central     processing data system having a central storage database; an     electronic signal transmission and reception device for initiating     communication with the electronic identification and data     transmission device and receiving the unique identification code     from the electronic identification and data transmission device     mounted on the moveable object; a local database having stored     information related to at least one of the unique identification     code, the moveable object and the at least one condition of the     moveable object; a camera capturing a first image of the moveable     object at a first observation time, wherein the first image captures     a graphical representation of the at least one condition of the     moveable object; a display device for displaying graphical     information contained in the first image, and displaying a query or     information including or related to the unique identification code;     an input device for inputting data related to the moveable object or     responses to the query regarding information displayed at the     display device; a data processing sub-system coupled to the     electronic signal transmission and reception device, the local     database, the camera, the display device and the input device, the     data processing sub-system comparing the signal containing     information of the unique identification code with related     information in the local database, displaying, at the display     device, graphical information contained in the first image and a     query to validate information related to the moveable object and the     unique identification code; means, within the data processing     sub-system for compiling information received from the electronic     signal transmission and reception device, from the camera, and from     the input device into a data record; a memory location within the     local database of the data processing sub-system for storing the     data record; a communication link between the local database and the     remote central data processing system for transmitting information     between the remote central data processing system and the local     database; and means for correlating the at least one stored data     record at the remote central processing data system to the     transmitted corresponding data comprising the assembled information     of the unique identification code, location coordinate data, and     corresponding date and time data stored at a previous time in the     remote central data processing system; and means for processing the     at least one stored data record and the transmitted corresponding     data.

The electronic identification and data logging device of the second sub-system and the general system of the second embodiment, and the electronic identification and data transmission device of the alternative general system of the second embodiment above, comprises: a unique identification code specific only to the apparatus; a date and clock signal generator for outputting current date and clock data; a location identification device for determining the geographic location of the apparatus and outputting corresponding location data, the location identification device comprises one of a global positioning system (GPS) output device, a cellular telephone location system device, and an accelerometer or inertial positioning device; a motion detection sensor for detecting when the apparatus is in motion; a central processor sub-system for data retrieval and transmission activated when the motion detection sensor detects motion, the data retrieval and transmission function comprises the assembling of data from the unique identification code, the date and clock data, and the location data at predetermined period time intervals, and subsequent transmission of the assembled data to a remote location; a memory for storing assembled data from the central processor sub-system; and a transmitter and receiver for transmitting and receiving data to and from the apparatus, the data comprises at least one of the unique identification code and the assembled data. Additionally, the unique identification code and the transmitter and receiver comprises a radio frequency identification device.

The electronic identification and data logging device of the second sub-system and the general system, and the electronic identification and data transmission device of the alternative general system of the second embodiment above, comprises a radio frequency identification device.

The second sub-system, the general system, and the alternative general system of the second embodiment above, further comprises an output device for outputting information related to the unique identification code, wherein the output device comprises a coupon printer device for printing coupons related to the unique identification code.

Additional sub-systems in communication with the general systems identified in the first and second embodiments above, are identified below.

A printer service is connected via a communication link with the remote central data processing system for printing material including a graphical representation. The remote central data processing system receives information related to a unique identification code and transmits a printer service order to the printer service based on processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data station or processing the received information related to a unique identification code.

A retail service location having the display device located thereon and a printer output device, both connected to the remote central data processing system via a communication link. The remote central data processing system receives information related to a unique identification code and transmits information to the retail service location regarding installation and payment for a graphical representation or an electronic identification device to be installed on a moveable object. The transmission of information to the retail service location is based on processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data station, or processing the received information related to the unique identification code.

The remote central data processing system receives information related to a unique identification code and transmits information to the payment issuing agent regarding the issuing of payment for services performed based on processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data station, or processing the received information related to the unique identification code.

The remote central data processing system receives information related to a unique identification code associated with the electronic identification device of the moveable object and transmits information to an operator or owner of the moveable object based on processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data station or processing the received information related to the unique identification code.

The remote central data processing system receives information related to a unique identification code and transmits information to a client based on processing the at least one stored data record at the remote central processing data station or processing the received information related to the unique identification code. Additionally, the transmitted information may comprise data representing date and time geographic location map overlays of related to at least one specific unique identification code.

The remote central data processing system transmits information to a retail sales location related to a solicitation of moveable objects for use within said moveable object accountability system, wherein said solicitation comprises advertising information, or rebates or coupons toward the purchase of merchandise.

The remote central data processing system transmits information to and receives information from a point of sale terminal in communication with the remote central processor. The point of sale terminal receives from the remote central data processor information related to the solicitation of owners or operators of moveable objects to enroll their moveable objects in the accountability system of the present invention, and transmits to that remote central data processor accountability system enrollment information of owners or operators of moveable objects.

The accountability system for verifying a condition on a moveable object of the present invention will become more readily apparent from a consideration of the following drawings and description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects of this invention will appear in the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of the specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

FIG. 1 shows a pictorial diagram of the moveable object accountability system.

FIG. 2 shows an expanded pictorial diagram of the moveable object accountability system with additional system components and their communication paths.

FIG. 3 shows a pictorial diagram of the second embodiment of the invention including a electronic identification device on a moveable object including a data logging feature that records location, date and time data in addition to the unique identification code.

FIG. 4 shows a flowchart diagram of a data logging function for an electronic identification and data logging device described in a second embodiment of the moveable object accountability system.

FIG. 5 shows a pictorial diagram of an alternative to the second embodiment of the invention including an electronic identification device on a moveable object including a real-time data transmission feature of assembled data including location, date and time data in addition to the unique identification code.

FIG. 6 shows a pictorial diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The first embodiment of the invention generally deals with a moveable object having an electronic identification device that communicates a unique identification code to a data collecting verification device which collects additional information about the moveable object and a condition of the moveable object for transmission to a remote database and data processing system.

FIG. 1 shows a moveable object (1) that anticipates any object capable of being in a different location at different times. One object of the invention is to independently verify a certain condition of or on the moveable object on a periodic basis. This condition, (illustrated in FIG. 1 by reference character “C”), could be one of many items related to the moveable object, such as a visible indication of certain distinguishing characteristics of the moveable object, e.g., the make, model and color of a vehicle, a visible licensing indicator of the moveable object, e.g., a license plate or a registration tag, or a graphical representation on the moveable object, e.g., an advertisement or placard. For example, in the situation where an advertisement is placed on the movable object under contract with the system of the present invention by an advertising client, it is necessary to provide some type of accountability to the advertising client to determine if the advertisement is still on the moveable object. The information necessary for verification of a certain condition may comprise different types of data depending on the information requirement of the client interested in verifying the condition on the moveable object.

In the present invention, the moveable object (1) has an electronic identification device (2) mounted on it. This electronic identification device (2) has an associated unique identification code (illustrated in FIG. 1 by reference characters “ID”) that can be electronically transmitted in a signal to receiving devices that request the identification code (ID). The unique identification code (ID) may be a permanent hardware MAC address or the like, and the electronic identification device (2) may be a transmitting and receiving radio frequency identification device (RFID).

In the preferred embodiment, a data verification station (3) can be located at either a fixed location in a form of a kiosk or a walk-up ATM-like machine, or may be a transportable mobile operating unit. The data verification station (3) has an electronic signal transmission and reception device (4) that can automatically determine the presence of and initiate communication with the electronic identification device (2) on the moveable object (1) to request the transmission of the unique identification code. The electronic identification device (2) receives the request and transmits the unique identification code (ID) for reception by the electronic signal transmission and reception device (4). The transmission path may be via a wireless RF signal with corresponding antennas (as shown in FIG. 1), or may be via a connected wired signal path.

A local database (5) has stored information related to the unique identification code (ID), the moveable object (1) and at least one condition (C) of the moveable object that has previously been received from a remote central processor (10). A data processor (6) compares the received unique identification code (ID) with the stored information related to the unique identification code. The data processor issues a query to a display device (6) that prompts an owner or operator of the moveable object (1) to input data at an input device (7) to verify information regarding the unique identification code (ID), the moveable object (1) or at least one condition (C) of the moveable object.

Once the data processor (6) verifies the input data as being correctly associated with the stored data in the local database (5), a camera (8) captures a digital image of the moveable object (1) such that the digital image includes a representation of at least one previously mentioned condition (C) of the moveable object (1). Under the data processor's (6) control, the digital image is then sent to and displayed at the display device (6) along with a query or information including or related to the unique identification code (ID). The owner or operator of the moveable object (1) inputs the requested data and verifies that the digital image is correctly displaying the specific condition (C) on the moveable object (1). The input data at this point may comprise travel history data of the moveable object, including odometer readings and other specific travel history reporting or conditions.

After the requested information is input to the data processor (6), the data processor (6) assemblies a data record comprising the current date and time the final input was received, the received unique identification code (ID) from the electronic identification device (2), the digital image from the camera including the verified representation of at least one condition (C) of the moveable object (1), and any data received from the input device. The data record is then temporarily stored in a memory location, preferably in a free memory register of the data processor (6) or in a file in the local database (5) for subsequent transmission by a data transmitter/receiver (9) via an external communication link to a remote central processor (10) having remote central storage device (11).

The data verification station (3) additionally has a printer output device (12) for outputting information specifically related to the unique identification code of the moveable object. The output device may comprise of a receipt, coupon or advertisement printing device having information specific to the owner or operator of the moveable object as determined by the unique identification code. Additional hardware at the data verification station (3) may also include a credit card or magnetic strip card-reader for inputting financial institution data of an owner or operator of a moveable object, a barcode scanner for inputting information from barcode systems, and a product or cash equivalent dispenser.

FIG. 2 illustrates additional system components of the present invention in communication with the remote central processor (10) that receive and transmit information based on the remote central processor (10) processing at least one of a plurality of transmitted data records related to specific unique identification codes (ID).

A printer service (20) in communication with the remote central processor (10) receives information from the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code. The information may contain specifications for a printing graphical representation for use on a moveable object subject to the previously mentioned accounting of a condition (C) on the moveable object (1). Additionally, the received information may contain owner or operator information and retail service information related to the printed material information. This allows the printer service (20) to ship (21) the ordered graphical representation to a specific retail service location with installation information about a specific owner or operator of a moveable object that will have the graphical representation installed thereon by personnel at the retail service location. The communication of the information received at the printing service is based on processing received information at the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code (ID), wherein the received information may be information regarding the assembled and stored data record transmitted by the data verification station (3).

A retail service location (30), having the data verification station (3) located thereon, in communication with the remote central processor (10) receives information from the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code. The information may contain instructions for printed graphical representation and an electronic identification device (2) installation on specific moveable objects (1) and related work order and payment information. This information allows the retail service location (30) to schedule installations on moveable objects (1) and keep records for payments due. Additionally, the retail service location (30) may input data related to printed graphical representation and electronic identification device installations on specific moveable objects via the data verification station (3) located therein for communication to the remote central processor (10). This data may comprise notification of finished installations for approval of payment and the like. The communication of the information received at the retail service location (30) is based on processing received information at the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code (ID), wherein the received information may be information regarding the assembled and stored data record transmitted by the data verification station (3).

A payment issuing agent (40) in communication with the remote central processor (10) receives payment information from the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code. The payment information may comprise instructions for payment type, (e.g., electronic funds transfer, credit card, check, retail cash or merchandise vouchers, and the like), payment amount, payee identification and address, or associated purchase/work order information. The payment agent then issues the appropriate payment to the specified entity for compensation for services performed, in the case of the owner or operator of the moveable objects (41) with a contractual obligation to display a graphical representation or advertisement on their moveable object, and in the case of the retail service location (42) for installation of the above mentioned products, or compensation for product ordered in the case of the printer service (43). The communication of the information received at the payment issuing agent (40) is based on processing received information at the remote central processor (10) related to a unique identification code (ID), wherein the received information may be information regarding the assembled and stored data record transmitted by the data verification station (3).

An owner or operator (50) of a specific moveable object (1) is in communication with the remote central processor (10) and receives information from the remote central processor (10) related to his unique identification code (ID) associated with his moveable object (1) or a specific condition (C) thereof. The communication may comprise of various types of well known communication methods and electronic media, e.g., mail, electronic mail (e-mail), telephone notification, instant messaging, pager, web-browser interface, etc. This communication with the remote central processor (10) informs the owner operator (50) of any relevant information with respect to his unique identification code or any condition (C) related to his moveable object within the accountability system. The communication of the information received by the owner or operator (40) is based on processing received information at the remote central processor (10) related to his unique identification code (ID), wherein the received information may be information regarding his assembled and stored data record transmitted by the data verification station (3).

A client (60) subscribing to the accountability system is in communication with the remote central processor (10) and receives information from the remote central processor (10) related to unique identification codes (ID) associated with certain moveable objects (1) and a specific condition (C) thereof. The client ultimately compensates owners or operators of moveable objects when a certain client prescribed condition on the owners' or operators' moveable objects is verified with the present invention's accountability system. The communication between the client (60) and the remote central processor (10) may take the form of requests by the client to create or modify a class of specific conditions on a number of moveable objects within the accountability system. Additionally, the remote central processor (10) can transmit to the client accumulated accountability reports processed from the assembled and stored data records transmitted by the data verification station (3) related to any specific or all unique identification codes the client may have contracted for. These accumulated accountability reports may include all the data from the assembled and stored records or may present only certain filtered data from the totality of data.

In the second embodiment, described below, a data logged or real time transmitted location coordinate with date and time data is stored with respect to unique identification codes. The location coordinate with date and time data may then be presented to the client (60) in a geographic map overlay presentation potentially showing every time identified route of every unique identification code the client has contracted for any client specific condition. The communication of the information reports received by the client (60) is based on processing received information at the remote central processor (10) related to the client's contracted unique identification codes (ID), and the received information regarding the assembled and stored data record transmitted by the data verification station (3).

A retail sales location (70) in communication with the remote central processor (10) receives information from the remote central processor (10) related to the solicitation of owner or operators of moveable objects to enroll their moveable objects in the accountability system of the present invention. Information related to the solicitation of owner or operators of moveable objects may comprise promotional advertising information, rebates or coupons toward the purchase of merchandise, and other incentive information.

A point of sale terminal (80) in communication with the remote central processor (10) receives information from and transmits information to the remote central processor (10) related to the solicitation of owner or operators of moveable objects to enroll their moveable objects in the accountability system of the present invention. Information related to the solicitation of owner or operators of moveable objects may comprise promotional advertising information, direct merchandise rebates at the point of sale, and other incentive information. The point of sale terminal is also able to transmit accountability system enrollment information of owners or operators of moveable objects to the remote central processor (10).

The second embodiment of the invention generally deals with a moveable object having a data logging or data transmission device with an electronic identification device that communicates a unique identification code and any logged data to a data collecting verification device which collects additional information about the moveable object and a condition of the moveable object for transmission to a remote database and data processing system.

The second general embodiment of this invention modifies the electronic identification device (2) of FIGS. 1-2, with a internally powered data logging feature able to record location, date and time data on a period interval when the electronic identification data logging device has detected itself to be in motion via a motion detector (90). In this second embodiment, see FIG. 4, the electronic identification and data logging device (91) comprises a central processing unit (92) that assembles a data record on a periodic interval comprising the unique identification code (ID) generated by the electronic identification device (93), date and time data generated by a data and time signal generator or a data and time signal receiver (94), and location identification data generated from a location coordinate device (95) that determines a geographic coordinate location. This location identification data can be generated by location devices such as a global positioning system (GPS) device, a cellular telephone location system device or an accelerometer or inertial positioning device. A combination of these listed devices would provide redundant operation should one device fail to generate a location signal, e.g., being able to provide a location coordinate based on the inertial positioning device calculating a current location position off of the last GPS coordinate if the GPS device travels into an area where satellite reception is lost and its output is prevented. Again, the unique identification code may be a transmitting and receiving radio frequency identification device (RFID) as the first general embodiment. Once the data record is assembled by the central processing unit (92), it is stored in a memory (96) in the identification data logging device and subsequently transmitted via a transmitter/receiver to a data verification and collection station, in similar manner to the data verification station (3) of FIGS. 1-2.

FIG. 4 shows a procedural flowchart of a method for collecting data on the location position of a moveable object electronic identification and data logging device, the data logging device having a unique identifier address code (100), a location identification output device (101), and a date and time signal output generator (102).

The method comprising the steps of determining movement of the data logging device (103); powering on the data logging device from a data logging power standby mode (104) if in the power standby mode based on the step of determining movement of the data logging device (105); retrieving the unique identifier address datum, a position datum from the location identification device, and current date and time data from the date and clock signal generator (106); storing date and time data (107) in a date and clock memory register (108); assembling the unique identifier address datum, a position datum from the location identification device, and current date and time data from the date and clock signal generator into data record (109) from the step of retrieving; storing (110) the data record in a memory (111) in the data logging device; determining (112) when the data and clock signal output equals the sum of a first specified period of time and the stored date and time data in the data and clock memory register, (wherein the first specified period of time is the data sampling rate); determining movement of the data logging device within a second specified period of time (103), (wherein the second specified period of time is the motion detector gate time, e.g., 30 seconds); repeating the steps designated by reference numbers (103) to (112) when determining movement of the data logging device within a second specified period of time (103) determines movement within the second specified period of time, i.e., the motion detector gate time; repeating the steps designated by reference numbers (103) to (112) when determining movement of the data logging device within a second specified period of time (103) determines no movement within the second specified period of time and when date/clock output (108) is less than the sum of a third specified period of time and the stored clock register data, (wherein the third specified period of time is the power to standby time—when no motion is detected the unit will power to standby mode; location output data collected in this loop should all be identical); powering down the data logging device (113) to standby power when determining movement of the data logging device within a second specified period of time (103) determines no movement within the second specified period of time and when date/clock output is equal to or greater than the sum of a third specified period of time and the stored clock register data.

In the second embodiment of the invention, the data verification station (3) of FIGS. 1-2 which received the unique identification code in the first embodiment, is now only functionally modified as shown in FIG. 3 (as reference number 97 indicates) to include the capacity for data collection of the assembled data from the electronic identification and data logging device (91) in addition to the unique identification code (ID). The assembled data temporarily stored in the memory (96) on the electronic identification and data logging device (91), as described immediately above, is now transmitted to the data verification and collection station (97) in a manner similar to the unique identification code of the first embodiment. The data verification and collection station (97) verifies, complies, stores and transmits to the remote central storage device (98) of the remote central processor (99), the assembled and transmitted data in addition to the same data and verification information and in the same manner as described in the first embodiment.

An alternative system of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 5 of the moveable object accountability system adds to the data logging feature of the electronic identification and data logging device (91) a real-time data transmission function. In this embodiment, the assembled data of the moveable object comprising the unique identifier code, location data, and date and time data (represented by ref. no. 120) is transmitted in real-time via a wireless transmission communication system (121) to the remote central storage device (122) of the remote central processor (123). The accountability verification system and procedure at the data verification station (3) of the first embodiment of this invention as shown in FIGS. 1-2 is identical to current alternative system of the second embodiment. However, the data transmitted (120) in real-time to the remote storage device (122) of the remote central processor (123) is correlated by the remote central processor (123) for subsequent processing based on matching identification codes (ID) with the data transmitted from the data verification system (3) of FIGS. 1-2 once that data is transmitted to the remote central processor (123).

An additional embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6 and allows for verification of a mobile object 1 in the accountability system with a hand-held data collection device 200 fashioned into a standard portable cellular camera telephone or camera equipped personal digital assistant (PDA). This hand-held data collection device 200 has an electronic signal transmission and reception capacity for initiating communication with a remote electronic identification device 2 on the movable object 1 and receives a signal containing information of a unique identification code from the remote electronic identification device on the movable object 1. A camera for capturing a digital image of the movable object is also in integral with the hand-held data collection device 200. The camera allows the collection of a digital image D including the representation of distinctive characteristics, licensing indicators, and a graphical representation C on the movable object 1. A display device 202 such as a LCD screen may display information contained in the image captured from the camera and alphanumeric text related to the unique identification code of the mobile object. An input device 204 that may comprise of a keypad with numeric or alphanumeric characters allows the user to input data related to the movable object or responses to information displayed on the display.

The data collection device also contains a communication device for communicating the graphic image and user input data via a telephone or wireless network N to a remote database 11 at a remote data collection station 10. This communication device may comprise a wireless telephone communication device or any other type of wireless communication device or protocol. The remote database contains stored information related to the unique identification code of the movable object and may transmit the stored information in an e-mail or text message format or may generate a telephone call to the hand-held data collection device for verification purposes and prompt a user to respond to and confirm the query received from the remote database. A user may respond by pressing numeric or alphanumeric keys on the hand-held data collection device, may issue a voice response into a microphone on the hand-held data collection device, or may swipe a magnetic identification card on a magnetic card reader located on the hand-held data collection device. This verification data is then sent to the remote data collection station.

A user may respond to a query for a unique identification code a signed to the user and by the movable object accountability system that is transmitted by a remote station in the accountability system to the hand-held data collection device. In this situation, the electronic signal transmission and reception device on the hand-held data collection device and the electronic identification device on the movable object may be replaced by a user issued unique identification code or personal identification number (PIN).

A hand-held data collection device contains a processor coupled to the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera, the display device and the input device. A programmable memory may store at least one at a record compiled by the processor from information received from the electronic signal transmission and reception device, the camera and the input device.

Electronic signal transmission and reception device may further comprise an RFID reader, or a communication device using a wireless communication protocol, such as a short range protocol as a Bluetooth or wireless USB protocol, or a medium-range protocol such as an 802.11 type communication protocol.

The present embodiment of the invention further includes a method of collecting accountability data for a movable object, wherein the method of collecting with a hand-held data collection device comprises the steps of determining the presence of an electronic identification device via wireless communication, outputting a unique identification code from the electronic identification device, receiving the output unique identification code and receiving from a remote database information with respect to the output unique identification code.

The hand-held data collection device compares the received unique identification code with information related to the received unique identification code from the remote database for verification purposes. A digital image is captured of a movable object including a representation of at least one condition, wherein the at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of the movable object, a visible licensing indicator of the movable object, and a graphical representation on the movable object. The image is displayed at a display device from the step of capturing.

The hand-held data collection device may then receive input from a user at an input device based on the step of displaying the digital image captured by the camera. The hand-held data collection device then assembles a data record comprising information contained in the unique identification code, the captured digital image of the movable object including the representation of at least one condition, and the received input, based on the step of comparing. The assembled data record is then transmitted to a remote database.

An additional embodiment of the present invention builds on the concept of an electronic geographical positioning device located on the movable object and connected to the electronic identification device having the unique identification code. Electronic geographical positioning device, is well-known in the art, generates court meant location data with respect to the location of the movable object at all times. A geographical positioning data collection system retrieves the court meant location data generated by the electronic geographical positioning device and identifies the retrieved coordinate location data with respect to the movable object. This may be accomplished with unique identification code.

A remote data processing system receives the retrieved identify corned location data from the geographical positioning data collection system and processes the data to generate a geographic travel routes and identifies travel patterns over specific periods of time for the movable object based on the identified court meant location data. A monitoring device system periodically identifies the presence of a condition of the movable object, as previously disclosed above. The remote data processing system processes data from a plurality of movable objects each having an electronic geographical positioning device thereon, or in the data collection system retrieves the court meant location data generated by each electronic geographical positioning device and identifies coordinate location data with respect to each mobile object. The remote data processing system generates geographic travel routes identifies travel patterns over specific periods of time for each of the movable objects based on the identified coordinate location data.

The remote data processing system further categorizes each of the movable objects based on the identified geographic travel routes and travel patterns, and assigns a prioritized value to each movable object based on the categorization of travel routes and patterns. Additionally, a profile description may be assigned to each movable object based on the general categorization of the travel routes and patterns.

The electronic geographical positioning device located in the movable objects may be a GPS device, a cellular telephone capable of generating coordinate location data, or a wireless communication device that trying your legs geographic coordinates with a new wireless communication network.

The geographical data collection system may include a geographic position data retrieval system that collects previously logged geographical positioning data from the movable object having the geographical positioning device, or the system may collect real-time geographic position data from the movable object via a wireless communications network.

Additionally, the remote data processing system may further identify a travel route of the movable object by processing specific coordinate location data and selected geodemographic data based on the identified travel route. The system may then generate a geodemographic database based on the selected geodemographic data.

An additional embodiment of the present invention a subscriber information and account management system incorporated into the movable object accountability system. The subscriber information and account management system includes a subscriber identification device that identifies a subscriber to the subscriber information and account management system and identifies a subscriber to the movable object accountability system. The subscriber identification device also identifies a subscriber account managed by the subscriber information and account management system and identifies the subscriber and the subscriber account to a vendor providing goods or services during transactions of goods or services.

A subscriber information and account management processor receives communication from the movable object accountability system on the status of the condition of the movable object, and receives transaction data associated with the subscriber when the subscriber identification device is presented for transactions to a vendor providing goods or services. The subscriber information and account management processor also generates subscriber specific data reports comprising data associated with the subscriber.

The subscriber information and account database communicates with the remote subscriber information and account management processor for storing and retrieving all communication received from the movable object accountability system associated with the subscriber, and for storing and retrieving all debt associated with the subscriber identification device when presented for commercial transactions.

The movable object accountability system further monitors and communicates geographic location or travel route information of the movable object, and the remote subscriber information and account management processor further receives communication from the movable object accountability system on the geographic location or travel routes of the movable object.

The subscriber identification device may be a unique electronically readable identification code specific to a subscriber, unique printed or optically readable image specific to a subscriber and readable by an electronic reader, or magnetic card with information specific to a subscriber.

The subscriber identification device may be a subscriber identified vendor or marketing group transaction loyalty card, wherein value for the purchase of goods or services is associated with the subscriber account.

The subscriber identification device may comprise of a subscriber identified financial transaction card, or value for the purchase of goods or services or financial credit line for the purchase of goods and services is associated with the subscriber account.

Additionally, the remote subscriber information and account management processor may issue a credit value to the subscriber account based on the status of the monitored condition of the user's movable object received from the movable object accountability system.

The subscriber identification device may further identify the subscriber at a location and at a specific time. The remote subscriber information and account management processor may receive location and time data associated with the subscriber when the subscriber identification device is presented at a location capable of identifying the subscriber identification device and communicating data of such identification and said time of presentation to the remote subscriber information account management processor. The subscriber information and account database further stores and retrieves all data associated with the subscriber when the subscriber identification device is presented at a specific location and time.

A method of collecting subscriber data by subscriber information and account management system with in a movable object accountability system consists of the steps of providing a subscriber with the subscriber identification device, or in the subscriber identification device identifies the subscriber to the subscriber information and account management system, and identifies a subscriber account associated with the subscriber and managed by the subscriber information account management system. The method of collecting subscriber data further comprises the step of receiving communication at the subscriber information and account management system from the movable object accountability system on the status of the condition of the movable object associated with the subscriber. Additionally, the system identifies the subscriber count by the subscriber identification device and receives identification data associated with the subscriber identification device from the step of identifying the subscriber count at the subscriber information and account management system.

The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and explanatory thereof, and various changes in size, shape and materials as well as in the details of the illustrated construction may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. 

1. A movable object accountability system for monitoring geographic travel routes and travel patterns over a period of time of a movable object, and for monitoring at least one condition of said movable object, wherein said at least one condition comprises one of a visible indication of distinguishing characteristics of said movable object, a visible licensing indicator of said movable object, or a graphical representation on said movable object, said movable object accountability system comprising: at least one movable object having an electronic geographical positioning device thereon, wherein said electronic geographical position device generates coordinate location data with respect to the location of said movable object; a geographical position data collection system for retrieving said coordinate location data generated by said electronic geographical positioning device on said movable object and identifying said retrieved coordinate location data with respect to said movable object; a remote data processing system for receiving said retrieved and identified coordinate location data from said geographical position data collection system and for processing said data to generate geographic travel routes and identify travel patterns over specific periods of time for said movable object based on said identified coordinate location data; and a monitoring device system for periodically identifying the presence of said at least one condition of said movable object.
 2. The movable object accountability system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said movable object accountability system further comprises: a plurality of movable objects each having electronic geographical positioning devices thereon; wherein said geographical positioning data collection system retrieves coordinate location data generated by said electronic geographical positioning devices on each of said plurality of movable objects and identifies said retrieved coordinate location data with respect to each specific movable object of said plurality of movable objects; and wherein said remote data processing system receives said coordinate location data from said geographical positioning data collection system for processing said coordinate location data to generate geographic travel routes and identify travel patterns over specific periods of time for each of said plurality of movable objects based on said identified coordinate location data.
 3. The movable object accountability system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said remote data processing system further: categorizes each of said plurality of movable objects based on said geographic travel routes and said identified travel patterns; assigns a prioritized value based on said categorization to each of said plurality of movable objects; and assigns a profile description based on said categorization to each of said plurality of movable objects.
 4. The movable object accountability system as claimed in claim 2, wherein said electronic geographical positioning device further comprises one from the group consisting of: a GPS device; a cellular telephone; and a wireless communication device that triangulates geographic coordinates within a wireless communication network.
 5. The movable object accountability system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said geographical data collection system further comprises one from the group consisting of: a geographical position data retrieval system for collecting logged geographical position data from said movable object having said electronic geographical positioning devices; and a real-time geographical data retrieval system for collecting real-time geographical position data from said movable object having said electronic geographical positioning devices.
 6. The moveable object accountability system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said remote data processing system further: identifies a travel route of a movable object by processing specific coordinate location data; selecting geodemographic data based on said identified travel route; generating a geodemographic database based on said selected demographic data. 